Symptoms

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

Your bodily fluids may be tested. This can be done with blood tests.

Images may be taken of any bodily structures that may have been affected by clotting. The method will depend on the area affected. Extremities can be examined for deep vein thrombosis with ultrasound. Damage from blood clots in the brain may be found with a CT or MRI scan. Other imaging may be used for diagnosing heart attacks or pulmonary embolism.

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Stopping the use of
heparin

Anticoagulating drugs—to
reduce the risk of blood clots

Vitamin K Antagonists Therapy (VKA)—if you were taking a VKA, it will be stopped and you will be given Vitamin K; the VKA will be restarted when your platelet count is normal.

Platelet transfusion—to replace lost platelets may be given
if there is severe bleeding, although this is very rare

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of getting heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, discuss with your doctor the following:

Avoiding heparin use

Taking
other
anticoagulants

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.